Tourist Attractions

Travellers come from far and wide to see the world famous temples of Khajuraho. The temples are all there is to see, but you don't need much more than these magnificent monuments to the gods, as you try and absorb the breadth of man's artistic ability and aesthetic sense that breathes life into mere slabs of stone.

The temples are unique in architecture and stunning in their ornamentation. They stand on high masonry platforms, and have three sections – the 'ardhamandapa' or the entrance, 'mandapa' or assembly hall and 'garbha griha' or the sanctum sanctorum. Khajuraho

The larger temples have additional sections. Each compartment has its own roof, each roof higher than the one before, all rising in tiered succession culminating in the towering 'shikhara' (pinnacle) over the inner sanctum. The whole entire effect is visually stunning. The distinctive architecture of the temples is further enhanced by absolutely superb sculptures inside and outside the temples that leave you mesmerised. Indeed, it is these exquisite sculptures that give Khajuraho its well-deserved fame.

The carvings and frescoes depict a variety of moods of every aspect of human life – from the mundane to the sublime. Exquisite carved images of gods and goddesses, 'apsaras' (celestial maidens) and animals (both real and mythical), soldiers, dancers and musicians, frozen in stone as they go about doing a variety of activities, decorate the temples.

The temples are replete with beautifully sculpted and detailed erotic figures in a mind-boggling variety of positions, of voluptuous maidens and handsome men, which have aroused much discussion and several interpretations regarding their relevance and meaning. Contrary to what you may have heard, the erotic sculpture is less titillating and more amazing as you marvel at the creativity and craftsmanship of the people who chiselled life into stone.The entire temple complex at Khajuraho spreads over a short distance in three main groups.

Of the three, the western group is the biggest, best preserved and easiest to access. The largest temple of the western group, and the most magnificent, is the Kandariya Mahadeo Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Khajuraho Built during the reign of King Vidyadhara, of the Chandela dynasty, the temple soars to an impressive height of 31 metres above the main platform, and has lavish and elaborate sculptures, representing Chandela art at its very zenith.

Do take along a guide who will explain everything in detail and make your visit really interesting. Other temples in the group are Chausath Yogini, Chitragupta, Vishwanath, Lakshmana, Matangeshwara, Devi Jagadamba, Parvati, Lakshmi and Varaha temples, each with its own history, presiding deity and points of interest